Karin Beth

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Karin Shelov Beth, who left us on December 3, 2025, at the age of 78. Born on May 26, 1947, in New York, NY, Karin lived a life marked by compassion, dedication, and resilience.

Karin was the beloved daughter of Sidney and Faith Shelov. She grew up alongside her siblings, Tamar and Steve, forming bonds that lasted throughout her life – especially sharing a family home on Candlewood Lake in Connecticut built by Sidney. Karin pursued her education at Lake Erie College in Ohio, where her curiosity and commitment to helping others began to shine.

Karin was a proud, devoted mother to her daughter, Corinne. After earning her MSW from Case Western Reserve, she moved to Massachusetts with her then-husband, Allan Beth, in 1976. The pair eventually settled in Ashland, where she lovingly raised Corinne and built a home filled with warmth and encouragement. Her relationships with her family were a source of strength, support, and joy.

Karin dedicated her career to improving the lives of others through her work in the mental health field. She served as executive director of Advocates and later held important administrative roles in other respected organizations across Massachusetts. Her leadership and vision touched countless lives and she continued working passionately until only recently.

Karin was admired for her remarkable bravery, unwavering warmth, and positive outlook, even in the face of health challenges. Her kindness and sincerity were evident to all who knew her, and she inspired others through her resilience.

Outside of her professional life, Karin found joy in sports, cooking, and photography. She would put her photography skills to work with her love for the outdoors, taking countless camping trips to many National Parks – a favorite being Glacier National Park in Montana. She was an avid UConn women's basketball fan and often dissected Patriots games with her sports group through the Callahan Center in Framingham. Karin also loved a good concert, especially the ballads of Holly Near, Cheryl Wheeler, Cris Williamson, and John Denver. She brought creativity and enthusiasm to everything she did, making memories with loved ones and capturing the beauty around her.

Karin leaves behind a legacy of love, courage, and service. Along with her daughter, siblings and their spouses, she loved and was loved by her nieces and nephews and their children. Her impact on her family, friends, and the community will be remembered with gratitude and affection. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.

To honor Karin's memory, please consider donations in lieu of flowers to: Advocates (https://advocates.org/support-advocates); Lake Erie College (https://www.lec.edu/alumni/alumni-give/); Center for Gender & Refugee Studies (https://cgrs.networkforgood.com/).